Jeremy Doku, Manchester City's electrifying winger, has delivered a startlingly honest assessment of the squad's mentality heading into the latest chapter of English football's most intense rivalry.
In an exclusive revelation, the Belgian international confessed that the reigning champions' motivation extends far beyond merely securing three points. The true driving force, according to Doku, was a deep-seated desire to truly humiliate their city rivals, Manchester United, on their own turf at the Etihad Stadium.
A Mindset of Dominance, Not Just Victory
Doku's comments peel back the curtain on the winning culture meticulously instilled by manager Pep Guardiola. It’s not enough for City to simply win; the objective is to dominate, control, and impose their will on the opposition in the most comprehensive fashion possible.
This aggressive, winning mentality is what separates good teams from great ones. For a club of City's stature, every match is a statement, but none more so than the derby—a fixture charged with local pride and historical significance.
More Than Just Bragging Rights
While the Premier League title race is always the ultimate prize, the Manchester derby carries its own unique weight. Doku’s admission highlights the psychological warfare at play. Demoralising a direct rival can have ramifications that echo throughout the entire season, affecting confidence and momentum.
This approach underscores the elite standards at the Etihad, where players are conditioned to seek not just success, but supremacy in every contest.
The Guardiola Effect
The relentless pursuit of perfection is a hallmark of Pep Guardiola's management. Doku’s insights confirm that this philosophy is deeply embedded in the players' psyche. They are taught to be ruthless, to play with intensity from the first whistle to the last, and to never be satisfied with a narrow win when a decisive victory is possible.
This mindset has been central to Manchester City's era of domestic dominance, fuelling their multiple Premier League, FA Cup, and Carabao Cup triumphs.
As the next derby looms, Doku’s words serve as a stark warning to their rivals. Manchester City doesn't just play to win; they play to conquer.
